National Kickstart Championships recap

The Kickstart Championships showcased the best young indigenous talent the country has to offer, with an U15 side from each state and territory taking part, from April 11-16 at Coffs Harbour International Stadium.

More than 330 players, coaches, and staff attended the event, which ran alongside the All Nations Multicultural Championships, and the Pacific Cup.

The NSW/ACT side started their campaign slowly, but built in confidence with each game they played, returning several very competitive showings, which pleased coach John Love and assistants Luke Penrith and Gerrit Wanganeen.

While they didn’t register a victory, the team gave its best effort for four quarters in every game, and the youngsters can hold their heads up high, with the experience invaluable for their football development.

Education workshops were held on Days three, four, and five with guest speakers – highlighted by AFL greats Kevin Sheedy and Michael O’Loughlin- giving valuable insight on health, recovery, drugs and alcohol, social media and much more.

The Kickstart Championships garnered significant media attention, with the Coffs Harbour public very supportive, turning out in good numbers to cheer on the indigenous rising stars.

Significantly, three of AFL NSW/ACT’s side were selected in the national Flying Boomerangs squad (pictured below):

•    Liam Lupton (Tuggeranong)
•    James Bell (Illawarra)
•    Timothy Banks (Wagga Wagga)

The Flying Boomerangs is a personal development and leadership program incorporating a match series against developing international countries (South Africa 2006 and 2008, PNG 2009, Tonga 2010 and Fiji in December 2011).

The Boomerangs also continue their leadership development with AFL players during the AFLPA Indigenous Player Camp.

Photos: AFL Media